The Young and the Restless recently shocked fans by reintroducing Cane Ashby—but not with the actor many expected. Daniel Goddard, long associated with Cane, wasn’t called back. As theories swirl online, whispers of behind-the-scenes drama and Beth Maitland’s involvement are gaining traction.
No Announcement, No Return—Why Recast Cane at All?
Longtime viewers were puzzled when the big Cane reveal came with no familiar face. Many expected a voice-over to explain the recast, a tradition on the show. Instead, fans had to quickly accept Billy Flynn as the new Cane Ashby. While Flynn is praised for his work, the choice stirred heated discussions.
Some believe producers wanted the surprise to mirror Lily’s reaction—shocked and emotional. But for fans who followed Cane and Lily’s long history, the moment lacked depth. The absence of Daniel Goddard in this iconic reveal has only raised more questions.
Did Daniel Goddard’s Refusal Break His Future?
One major theory online is that Goddard’s exit wasn’t voluntary. According to fans, Daniel objected to a romantic storyline involving Traci Abbott, portrayed by Beth Maitland. That pairing was met with confusion by viewers and allegedly resistance from Goddard himself.
Some Reddit and fan forum users say he disliked the age gap and the storyline’s direction. The situation grew tense when he reportedly liked social media posts mocking Beth Maitland. That didn’t sit well with fans—or the show’s cast. Many believe this disrespect, whether real or perceived, cost him his future on the show.
Beth Maitland, a respected veteran on The Young and the Restless, is said to have felt uncomfortable with the storyline as well. She allegedly didn’t see her character Traci betraying Lily by starting something with Cane. If both actors opposed the plot, it may have been scrapped altogether.
However, rumors suggest that Maitland’s discomfort didn’t fuel Goddard’s firing—it was the reverse. Goddard’s attitude toward the pairing, and toward Beth personally, created division. Some insiders claim Christel Khalil, who plays Lily, was so disturbed by his behavior that she asked to be taken off contract until he left.
While Daniel Goddard has a loyal fanbase, social media threads expose a deeper conflict. Allegations include inappropriate behavior on set and mistreatment of co-stars. Several fans recalled cast members wanting him gone, including Christel Khalil, his on-screen partner.
The fallout was reportedly so intense that producers decided to part ways quietly. Goddard later explained his exit as a disagreement with the storyline. But those behind-the-scenes stories have cast a long shadow.
The Young and the Restless: Why Billy Flynn Might Be the Safer Bet
Billy Flynn’s casting as Cane may not be what fans hoped for, but it’s a calculated move. He brings experience, stability, and a fresh take on a long-dormant character. His age and acting background suit Cane’s storyline evolution, even if his accent and appearance differ.
Some fans still wish an Australian actor had been chosen to preserve Cane’s identity. Yet, with tensions behind the scenes, Flynn appears to be a peacekeeping choice. And for now, it seems the only Cane Ashby we’ll get.
The Young and the Restless made a bold move by not rehiring Daniel Goddard. With swirling rumors involving Beth Maitland and strained cast relationships, the choice may have saved bigger trouble. For more soap buzz, keep following Soap Opera Daily. Until next time!
I never liked the Cane character. I was very glad when #YR discontinued his storylines. I’m sorry to see him back in the mix but glad a different actor is portraying him.
Why the big preparation & crazy pre Cain Appearence for Cane to come back on this show only to.use him as competition for Damien for Lily. His actual.appearence was underwhelming. No accent & a different person all.together was disappointing. The whole Damien character , that ended with him pursuing Lily was underwhelming also. Y&R should have made better use of Chance .
Cain without the kids involved was totally a bust. People stealing each others company has gotten old & swapping gf & bf is getting old !
RIDICULOUS ALL OF IT WITH “RUMORS” AND ZERO
CONFIRMATION OR FACTS. NOT COOL TO DAMAGE AN ACTORS REPUTATION. A GOOD ACTOR AND VERY NICE MAN. I WATCHED Y&R SINCE THE 70’s VERY LOYALY WITH MY GRAM BUT HAVE STOPPED AFTER WHAT DID TO DG. POOR CHOICE THE REPLACEMENT IS VERY DISAPPOINTING AND HALF THE ACTOR. SORRY BUT TRUE.
A hit would have been made by bringing the original Cane back. And, Traci? Is that how Cane got his name, by interacting with Traci, the fiction writter?? Y&R lost a chance to have a really good story.
A hit would have been made by bringing the original Cane back. And, Traci? Is that how Cane got his name, by interacting with Traci, the fiction writter?? Y&R lost a chance to have a really good story.
And in the meantime on GH he portrays a 50 year old creeper hitting on young college age women 🤮
CHARACTER NOT FACT ONLY YOUR INUENDO 🤮
The new Cane is way , way too young for Traci. Love her though.
Cane (Daniel) was never my favorite character, but I really do love Billie Flynn. I watch Days of Our Lives, and Chad is a great actor . I hope it works out for him on the Y&R.